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Latrobe Crime Watch News Letter Latrobe Police Service Area July 2013Coming Events, Message from Inspector Mick West, June Neighbourhood Watch Crime Reports, Hot Spots, New Police Uniforms, Web Sites for Emergencies. By Malcolm Lawrence - 23rd July 2013 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
July 2013
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000, Mobiles 112, State the service you want – Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police: Boolarra 5169 6222, Churchill 5122 1790, Moe 5127 2222, Morwell 5131 5000
Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit – Latrobe PSA, L/S/C Brett Godden, 5131 5085, 0400 050 749.
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78, Consumer Affairs 5116 5701, Dept Primary Industry 136186.
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528, Latrobe City 1300 367 700.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024, Poisons Information 13 11 26,
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Wed 24th July - Churchill District and Community Assoc Meeting - Churchill Community Hall - 7 pm
Monday 5th August - Moe/Newborough Town Meeting - Moe RSL – Albert Street, Moe – 7pm
Tuesday 6th August - Traralgon Town Meeting - Traralgon Police Station, Kay St, Traralgon – 7pm
Wednesday 7th August - Morwell Town Meeting – Morwell RSL – Elgin Street, Morwell – 7pm
Wednesday 14th August - Yallourn North Town Meeting - Yallourn North Bowling Club–7 pm
HOT SPOTS – POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC’S HELP
THEFT FROM MOTOR CARS IN TRARALGON
So far this month there have been ten incidents of thefts from cars reported in the Traralgon Police response zone. All incidents have occurred at night. The thefts occurred in Alexandra Ave, Malibu Pl, Heighton Crt, Booth Crt, Sundale Rd, Trivalve Crt, Coster St and Grey St. Amongst the items stolen were toolboxes, LED driving lights, coins and cash and a camera. In all except one of the ten incidents the vehicle was unlocked.
Latrobe Police are appealing for the public's assistance in two ways. Firstly, ensure you lock your car at all times when leaving it unattended, including when it is parked in your own driveway.
For crime prevention tips to prevent becoming the victim in a theft from motor vehicle incident visit the Victoria Police web site at http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=9562
Secondly, police urge any other person who may have information related to these incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 7028.
MESSAGE FROM LATROBE INSPECTOR MICK WEST
WE ARE SEEKING LOCAL POLICE RECRUITS
Victoria Police is currently recruiting and I wish to strongly encourage interested Latrobe Valley citizens to get their applications in. If you are looking for a career where you can make a difference, that is highly rewarding, community-orientated, challenging and financially secure, then this is the job for you. I can promise you there is never a dull moment.
Locally, we are about to lose a number of junior members who are heading back to Melbourne to continue their careers. These are members who commit to country policing for two years and then move on. Once their time is up some head back to the city lights and their extended families.
In Latrobe we put a lot of effort into training these young members and we would like to keep them and many fall in love with the area and stay. However, the best way to retain members would be if they were recruited from the Valley in the first place.
Once training at the Police Academy is completed, recruits can come back home to us and make their careers down here. This would be a great thing for the local community in the long term.
When working at large country police stations such as Morwell, Moe and Traralgon, you will have opportunities that are not usually available to your city counterparts. You will have opportunities to perform temporary duties at the Criminal Investigation Unit, Family Violence Unit and the Highway Patrol. You may be given the chance to perform duties at holiday locations in our division such as Cowes and at the Prom and work the Australian Motor Cycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island.
An article on police recruiting appears later in this newsletter. Whether you are young and embarking on your working career or an older local looking for a change of career, we want you. If you are committed to your home community we will do everything we can to assist you through the application process and in coming back to us.
In short, we will assist you to assist us in making Latrobe a better place in which to live.
JUNE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
BOOLARRA/YINNAR DISTRICT CRIME REPORT
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 1 for June (2 May) - Between 11th and 15th June unknown offenders damaged a vehicle parked outside an address in Littleton St, Yinnar, in the process of stealing a set of lights from the vehicle.
BURGLARY - 1 for June (Nil May) - Between 18th and 20th June unknown offenders entered a shed in Yinnar-Driffield Rd, Yinnar. This is the second time this shed has been burgled however this time nothing appears to be stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for June (1 May) - One of the thefts is mentioned in the property damage report whilst between 9th and 11th June offenders stole both rear taillights from a vehicle parked in Austin Ave, Boolarra.
THEFT - Nil for June (1 May)
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT (INCLUDES JEERALANG)
ASSAULTS - 2 for June (6 May) - In both incidents an offender has been charged with assault related offences.
ARSON - 1 for June (Nil May) - One offender charged with criminal damage by arson.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 9 for June (5 May) - One offender charged with criminal damage. A number of the damages relate to vehicle windows being damaged by various means. A concern for police is two incidents in Monash Way where rocks were thrown at passing vehicles. Police will be conducting more patrols in the area.
BURGLARY - 1 for June (3 May) - Overnight 12th June unknown offenders broke into the Churchill Cricket Club by smashing a window and stealing alcohol and confectionary.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (2 May) - One offender charged.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (3 May) - The offender charged with theft from motor vehicle has also been charged with theft of motor vehicle amongst other charges.
THEFT - 4 for June (3 May) - Two offenders charged. Between 5th and 19th June a generator was stolen from a rural property in Rickard Dr whilst a tyre was stolen from a vehicle which had broken down on the street in Canterbury Way.
MOE/NEWBOROUGH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: Letter of thanks for donation from the SES. A discussion was held on the recent spate of graffiti in Newborough area.
ROBBERY - 2 for June (Nil May) - On 22nd June the victim was walking through the grounds of a school in Albert St when he was hit by an unknown offender and his wallet stolen. On 30th June a male was assaulted in Wirraway St and had cigarettes stolen.
ASSAULT - 17 for June (14 May) - Fifteen offenders charged. Police are following up suspects in relation to assaults in Saxtons Dr and Newark Ave on 20th June. A female was assaulted by another female in Albert St on 16th June whilst a male was slapped by another male outside Coles on the same day.
ARSON - 1 for June (Nil May) - Overnight 16th June unknown offenders set a trampoline alight in a front yard in Jubilee St.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 30 for June (32 May) - Two offenders charged. The majority of damages involved windows of residences (15) and businesses (7) being smashed by rocks or items thrown at them. A series of damages were committed in the Elizabeth St, Queen St and Wirraway St area overnight 19th June.
BURGLARY - 12 for June (9 May) - The burglaries during June were mostly committed on residential premises with windows being the most common point of entry. Sheds and garages (both unlocked and locked) feature predominantly amongst the burglaries with chainsaws and tools stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 10 for June (6 May) - Eight of the thefts occurred in residential driveways or streets. A set of number plates was stolen from a vehicle in the driveway of a residence in Albert St. The plates were replaced with a set that was stolen earlier. Between 19th and 22nd June unknown offenders entered an unlocked vehicle behind a business and stole a GPS unit and tracker.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (Nil May) - The only vehicle stolen during June was an unregistered Yamaha LB80 Chappy motorcycle from Western Ave, Newborough. It is still outstanding.
THEFT (OTHER) - 12 for June (8 May) - One offender charged. Overnight 29th June two letterboxes were stolen from residences in Murray Rd and Law St Newborough whilst another was stolen from a residence in Drew St overnight 18th June. Four of the thefts relate to phones being left behind at a shop or on benches at parties. Police advise against the practice of putting a phone down whilst doing another activity and leaving it unattended.
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT(INCLUDES TYERS)
PREVIOUS ISSUES: Discussions were held on involving the younger community in NHW through the Latrobe’s eyewatch page; parking on nature strips; continuing graffiti; and dangerous riding by users of Motorised Mobility Devices on footpaths.
ROBBERY - Nil for June (4 May)
ASSAULT - 23 for June (19 May) - Twenty one offenders charged. Police are following up two identified suspects for assaults in Hazelwood Rd on 25th June and at the Morwell Railway Station on 19th June.
ARSON - 1 for June (4 May) - One offender charged with criminal damage by arson.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 17 for June (27 May) - Eight offenders charged. Police are following up identified suspects in relation to incidents in Hazelwood Rd and Commercial Rd. A number of the offenders charged with property damage are the same as those charged with assault related offences.
BURGLARY - 15 for June (15 May) - Two offenders charged with false report during June whilst four others have been charged with burglary. One will face five charges. Overnight 8th June Commercial Rd Primary School was broken into with a number of iPads stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 13 for June (8 May) - The offender charged with five counts of burglary has also been charged with theft from motor vehicle involving the theft of two registration plates. Overnight 10th June three thefts occurred in Franklin St, Beatrice Crt and Crinigan Rd with iPods, coins and a first aid kit stolen from three unlocked vehicles.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 5 for June (6 May) - Five offenders charged with three also being charged with attempted theft of motor vehicle. One of the offenders is the offender charged with burglary. All vehicles stolen during June have been recovered.
THEFT - 11 for June (12 May) - Seven offenders charged with the offender charged with burglary and theft of motor vehicle also facing two counts of theft. A number of roadwork signs were stolen from a work site on Hourigan Rd between 20th - 26th June.
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
(INCLUDES GLENGARRY, TOONGABBIE, HAZELWOOD NORTH, TRARALGON SOUTH)
PREVIOUS ISSUES: A discussion was held on the instigation and success of Latrobe’s eyewatch page.
ROBBERY - Nil for June (3 May)
ASSAULT - 29 for June (28 May) – 27 offenders charged with police following up identified suspects in relation to assaults in a taxi on 2nd June, an attempted threat to kill at Stocklands Car park on 7th June and an assault in Gilmour St on 26th June.
ARSON - 1 for June (2 May) - Between 28th June and 1st July unknown offenders set two toilets alight in the public toilets at the Traralgon Showgrounds.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 64 for June (43 May) - Ten offenders charged. Police are investigating a large number of damages to vehicles in residential driveways and streets. Evidence suggests the occupants of a dark blue Ford Falcon sedan have been firing rocks or ball bearings from a sling shot at windows of vehicles or houses.
BURGLARY - 12 for June (10 May) - One offender charged. The Tyers Primary School and Pre School were broken into overnight 24th June with nothing stolen from the school however, a camera was stolen from the preschool. A house under construction in Hammersmith Circuit was broken into twice on 15th and 16th June with a range hood, cook top, sink, dishwasher and oven stolen over the two days.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 26 for June (18 May) - Overnight 27th June unknown offenders entered two vehicles parked in driveways in Dranes Rd and stole a wallet and fuel card. Three vehicles at an address in Christian Rise were entered overnight 18th June. Whilst a purse was the only item stolen the victims had left keys in the ignitions of two of the vehicles.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 5 for June (2 May) - One offender charged with two of the vehicles located. The vehicles which remain outstanding are an unregistered Honda CRF450 motorcycle red/white in colour which was stolen on 10/06/13 from Stockdale Rd; ZKS498 a 1996 Toyota Landcruiser green in colour stolen 13/06/13 from Jackson St and ; YRT434 a 2004 Ford Territory silver in colour stolen 30/06/13 from the Latrobe Regional Hospital car park.
THEFT - 12 for June (13 May) - Police are following up a suspect for a theft in Grey St on 19th June. A number of the thefts involve mobile phones, wallets or purses being left behind.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
ASSAULT - Nil for June (1 May)
ARSON - Nil for June (1 May)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 2 for June (Nil May) - A rubbish bin on the side of Tanjil East Rd was destroyed by unknown means overnight 17th June whilst police are making follow up enquiries into a fire at Yallourn Power Station on 21st June.
BURGLARY - Nil for June (2 May)
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - Nil for June (2 May)
WEB SITES FOR EMERGENCIES
In recent years Gippslanders have had to weather numerous emergency situations; earthquakes, bushfires, storms and most recently floods.
In times of emergency many people choose to ring 000 in an attempt to find out information. This not only clogs the emergency telephone system, it can also delay help from emergency services getting to those who are genuinely in need of assistance.
All 000 Control Rooms (Police, CFA, SES and Ambulance) provide reactive coordination services. In other words, they take the call and dispatch responding units to where they are needed. They do not collate and save the information for public dissemination. That is the responsibility of other divisions within those organisations, such as Media Liaison Units.
It is vital you remember 000 IS NOT AN INFORMATION SERVICE – IT IS AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICE.
Next time you find yourself in a situation where you need information rather than emergency assistance, you may find the information you need at the following websites:
ABC RADIO GIPPSLAND: http://www.abc.net.au/gippsland/emergencies/?ref=nav Gippsland’s emergency radio broadcaster. Find current emergencies listed, information on preparing for emergencies and links to other sites.
BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY (BOM): WEATHER WARNINGS: http://www.bom.gov.au/ At this site you can find weather warnings for the whole of Australia. Select the state you wish to see and follow the prompts. You can also find the location of other radars across the nation. For Gippslanders, go to the 128km Bairnsdale Radar where you can view the satellite pictures of weather fronts coming into or across the Gippsland weather district within 128km from Bairnsdale. You can expand the distance covered to 256 km or 512 km.
COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY: http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au At this site you can find the CFA’s bans, restrictions and fire ratings and find CFA warnings and current incidents.
ELDERS WEATHER www.eldersweather.com.au/index.jsp On this page if you program in a postcode or a town name you will get an area/town specific weather forecast.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION VICTORIA: http://emergencyvic.info/ At this site view locations of current incidents across the state. Information is added by the relevant agency such as CFA, MFB, Department of Sustainability and the State Emergency Service. Zoom in on the map to find out if anything is going on in your area.
NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFER PLACES (CFA): http://www.saferplaces.cfa.vic.gov.au Search for Neighbourhood Safer Places closest to you by municipality, township or postcode.
SEISMOLOGY RESEARCH CENTRE (EARTHQUAKES): http://www.esands.com/Home/Seismology_Research_Centre.html View earthquake information worldwide and report what you feel when an earthquake strikes at http://www.esands.com/Earthquake_Report.html
EYEWATCH - LATROBE POLICE SERVICE AREA If you are signed up to Facebook search for eyewatch - Latrobe Police Service Area to find the latest information for Victoria Police’s Latrobe Police Service Area. Find the page at
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eyewatch-Latrobe-Police-Service-Area/131624007022562
STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE VICTORIA: http://www.ses.vic.gov.au/ View the latest emergency warnings for Victoria and get information on preparing your home for an emergency.
VICROADS: http://vicroads.vic.gov.au At this site you can find you can find road closures and traffic alerts including maps. Zoom in to enlarge the map to find road closures in your area. You can also find the latest travel and road conditions including road closures. Of course, you can find licensing and registration information as well.
VICTORIAN SNOW REPORT: http://www.vicsnowreport.com.au/ Find out where snow is falling at Gippsland’s Mt Baw Baw and Mt St Gwinear as well Victoria’s other snow resorts. Find out what runs are open, check actual conditions on the snow cams and find out if you need to fit chains to your vehicle.
WEATHER CHANNEL: http://www.weatherchannel.com.au/WeatherMap#VIC Takes you to the Victorian weather map. You can also view weather information throughout the world.
Of course, you do not have to limit yourself to the internet to gain emergency information. Do not forget the media.
A major cog in the delivery of Gippsland emergency information comes through our local media, television and print, but particularly radio. All stations provide a degree of information but in an emergency we recommend tuning into ABC Gippsland.
ABC Gippsland, at 100.7 FM and at 828 on the AM dial, delivers official warnings and alerts and publishes emergency information sourced from ABC Local Radio and ABC News. During an emergency ABC Gippsland will interrupt, and at times suspend, State-wide and Nation-wide programs to offer a local service outside of normal broadcasting hours. As information comes to hand it will broadcast updates and instructions from emergency agencies.
TELEPHONE SERVICES – There are many services that can provide the information you need without ringing the 000 emergency services. Here are a few of them.
National Relay Service - 1800 555 677
VicRoads Road closure information – 131170
Victorian Bushfire Information Line - 1800 240 667
OUT WITH THE OLD IN WITH THE NEW - NEW UNIFORM COMING TO LATROBE
As Victoria Police’s new uniform is progressively rolled out across the state, you will gradually come to see Latrobe officers wearing it.
There are two styles of uniform, the operational uniform and the office uniform. A ceremonial uniform is issued for police of officer rank.
This is the first major change to the uniform since police went from the black tunic and pants to the blue uniform 32 years ago.
The new uniform is a modern, durable, wash and wear fabric and has more pockets for officers to carry the equipment they readily need in performing operational police duties. The uniform is designed to be non-gender specific.
The first members kitted-out will be graduates from the police academy.
The first person to wear the new uniform in the Latrobe Valley is police academy graduate Constable Josh Kaestner, who commenced general duties work at the Traralgon Police Station earlier this month. Josh’s father isSergeant Steve Kaestner from Morwell Police Station.
It is predicted Steve, and all other Latrobe members, should be wearing the new uniform by the end of the year.
CRIME STOPPERS
Police remind the community if they see something suspicious they should ring 000 or if they have information in relation to an offence contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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Crime is rising across Gippsland, with assaults, thefts, and burglaries increasing sharply, prompting Nationals’ Danny O’Brien to call for stronger police resourcing, law reforms, and preventative measures. - Martin Cameron says Labor fails on crime, wasting millions on machete bins instead of protecting Gippsland
Crime in Latrobe has surged under Labor, with Moe incidents up 26% and retail theft 65%. Nationals' Martin Cameron says only their Safer Communities Plan will restore safety. - Danny O’Brien warns 33 percent crime rise highlights Gippsland commuters’ safety concerns, lacking adequate PSO protection
Crime on Gippsland public transport has risen nearly 33% in 12 months, raising concerns about PSO coverage and regional commuter safety under the Allan Labor government. - Labor government slammed as Gippsland crime soars, Danny O'Brien warns communities are failed by weak laws
Danny O'Brien says Gippsland crime is surging under Labor, with major increases across all councils. He warns weakened laws, police shortages, and neglect leave communities unsafe, demanding stronger action and real consequences. - CFMEU corruption report exposes organised crime links, $15B project blowouts, prompting Melina Bath to demand Labor accountability
The ‘Rotting from the Top’ report exposes serious CFMEU corruption, links to organised crime, and $15 billion in project blowouts, prompting Nationals MP Melina Bath to demand Allan Labor government accountability. - Tim Bull says rising retail crime reflects Victoria’s weak approach, despite claims of toughest bail laws
Retail theft is surging in East Gippsland, with repeat offenders emboldened. Tim Bull calls for tougher penalties, accountability, and support for struggling households to protect businesses and local communities. - Melina Bath urges action on Gippsland youth crime with tougher penalties, stronger policing, and restored diversion funding
Melina Bath has demanded urgent action on Gippsland's escalating youth crime, calling for tougher penalties, stronger police presence, and restored diversion program funding to protect communities and restore safety. - Martin Cameron urges Labor government funding commitment on Latrobe Valley mental health unit urgently needing expansion
The Nationals’ Martin Cameron urges Allan Labor Government to urgently expand Latrobe Regional Health’s mental health unit, citing critically limited beds and growing demand for timely care in Gippsland. - Martin Cameron urges Labor government to enforce tobacco licensing, protect Latrobe Valley businesses from organised crime threats
Martin Cameron urges Allan Labor Government to increase tobacco inspector numbers, enforce licensing, and protect Latrobe Valley businesses from organised crime threatening local shops and operators. - Tim Bull slams Labor's cuts to 'Youth Crime Prevention', unveils $100M Safer Communities Plan
Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticised Labor's youth crime prevention cuts, promoting The Nationals' $100 million Safer Communities Plan combining tougher laws with prevention programs to improve safety and restore community confidence. - Nationals' $100M Safer Communities Plan targets crime crisis with tough laws and prevention programs across Gippsland
Martin Cameron backed a $100 million Safer Communities Plan, promising tougher laws and prevention programs to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, restore community safety, and support at-risk youth, contrasting Labor's cuts. - Martin Cameron says new emergency services tax replaces fire levy, adding enormous pressure to struggling small businesses
Latrobe Valley small businesses face soaring costs as Labor's new Emergency Services Tax replaces the Fire Services Levy, with Nationals warning it punishes regional communities and fuels insolvencies amid financial mismanagement. - Martin Cameron questions Labor government for denying regional crime crisis and the ongoing failures of 'Bail Laws'
The Nationals' Martin Cameron has accused the Allan Labor government of failing Victorians with weak bail laws, after repeat offenders continue to walk free and regional crime remains out of control. - Sale’s burnt police station must be cleared and redeveloped after 11 years of government inaction, says Danny O’Brien
Nationals MP Danny O’Brien urges Allan Labor Government to clear and redevelop Sale’s old police station site after 11 years of inaction, following its recent deliberate burning. - New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing. - New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates. - Omeo gains new modular worker accommodation, supporting healthcare staff and strengthening regional community
Omeo District Health's new modular worker accommodation is underway, providing housing for healthcare staff, supporting regional jobs, and helping the town attract and retain doctors, nurses, and essential workers. - Omeo Mountain Bike Trails update - new website, shuttle services, and summer 114km launch
Omeo Mountain Bike Trails has launched a new website and shuttle services, with 40 km open now and the full 114 km network officially debuting this summer for riders nationwide. - East Gippsland Water launches new Voice of Customer program to enhance service through feedback
East Gippsland Water has launched a new Voice of Customer program, inviting feedback via SMS surveys to guide service improvements, with participants eligible for monthly $50 water bill credits. - Darren Chester meets new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss future opportunities for East Gippsland Healthcare
Darren Chester met new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss healthcare challenges, commend local innovations improving patient care, and strengthen collaboration to deliver high-quality, accessible health services across East Gippsland. - Baw Baw Shire to gain two new kindergartens located at the Neerim South Primary School and Warragul Regional College opening in 2028
Baw Baw Shire will gain two new kindergartens at Neerim South and Warragul, opening in 2028, easing local demand and supporting families as part of the State’s Best Start reforms. - East Gippsland welcomes 32 new citizens from 14 countries at Bairnsdale ceremony, celebrating diversity, and shared Australian values
East Gippsland welcomed 32 new citizens from 14 countries at Bairnsdale, celebrating diversity, community spirit, and contributions of residents embracing their new Australian citizenship. - Darren Chester welcomes new all-abilities ramp at Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club, enhancing accessibility and inclusion
Federal Member Darren Chester welcomed the new all-abilities ramp at Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club, enhancing accessibility, inclusion, and community participation, supported by local business and the #lovegippsland Stronger Communities Grant. - Bass Coast Council trials new multilingual coastal safety signage at high-risk beaches to reduce drowning incidents
Bass Coast Council is trialling new multilingual coastal safety signage at high-risk beaches, providing hazard warnings, QR codes, and educational resources to improve visitor safety and reduce drowning incidents. - Bass Coast Shire Council delivers new shared path linking Cowes and Ventnor, boosting transport safety and community connectivity
Bass Coast Shire Council will deliver a new 2km Ventnor Road Shared Path, linking Cowes and Ventnor, improving safety, accessibility, and community connectivity. The $1.96m project is jointly funded with the Australian government. - Martin Cameron demands action as data reveals dangerous one-star safety ratings on Latrobe Valley roads
Nationals MP Martin Cameron has condemned the poor safety of Latrobe Valley roads, after state data revealed many key routes rated one or two stars, demanding urgent government action. - Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates and modernising fair valuation system
Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates, increasing vacant land differential, introducing pensioner and first-homeowner rebates, and aligning Rural Land Management reforms with biodiversity and community feedback. - Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates and modernising fair valuation system
Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates, increasing vacant land differential, introducing pensioner and first-homeowner rebates, and aligning Rural Land Management reforms with biodiversity and community feedback. - David Littleproud says new mapping reveals Labor's renewables damage, strengthening the call for nuclear energy
The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has accused the Albanese government of removing veterans' rights to review bravery awards, warning proposed reforms undermine fairness, independence, and recognition of Australia's war heroes. - Darren Chester welcomes $6.2M Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment with upgraded facilities for Latrobe Valley sports clubs
Darren Chester welcomed the $6.2 million Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment, providing modern changerooms and upgraded facilities through joint funding to support Latrobe Valley sports and long-term community participation. - Darren Chester celebrates Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell Facility supporting education and regional workforce development
Darren Chester welcomed Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell facility, celebrating its role in empowering students, supporting vocational education, and strengthening Gippsland’s workforce and regional communities. - Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations effective from 1 January 2026
Danny O’Brien urged Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations from 1 January 2026, warning compliance is essential to avoid penalties despite Nationals’ opposition. - Construction begins on Western Park Oval 2 Pavilion, including new curator shed and upgraded female-friendly facilities
Construction has started on Western Park Oval 2 Pavilion, beginning with a new curator shed, supporting local sports growth, female-friendly facilities, and community recreation, funded by Council and a government grant. - Bairnsdale's Shannon Waters Estate residents receive new digital water meters as East Gippsland Water expands roll-out
Shannon Waters Estate residents in Bairnsdale are receiving new digital water meters, enabling near-real-time usage tracking, early leak detection, and faster service, following a successful Bemm River trial. - Danny O'Brien urges Labor government to fund new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel for community safety
Danny O'Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently fund a new $2 million vessel for Port Welshpool Coastguard, ensuring volunteers can safely cover Corner Inlet, Wilsons Promontory, and protect locals. - Martin Cameron slams Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf and ignoring immediate Latrobe Valley job losses
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf, failing to provide immediate jobs or industry support for the Latrobe Valley amid coal power closures. - Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to obtain licences as new state licensing scheme is enforced from 1 February 2026
Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to comply with Victoria’s new licensing scheme, aiming to curb illegal sales, organised crime, and ensure consistent enforcement for safer regional communities. - Martin Cameron slams Energy Minister D'Ambrosio's false claims on power prices and jobs in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron condemned Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio's claims of delivering for Latrobe Valley, citing soaring power prices, weak jobs growth, and neglect of residents during Victoria's energy transition. - Melina Bath criticised Labor's plan to create new national parks, locking out long-term bush users
Liberals and Nationals oppose Labor's plan to convert 65,000 hectares into national parks, citing unfair exclusion of bush users despite strong opposition and a 40,000-signature petition against the proposal. - Baw Baw Shire Council appoints experienced leader Tilla Buden as new chief executive officer commencing on November 2025
Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Tilla Buden as its new CEO, bringing extensive leadership experience and community focus. She will formally commence in the role on 17 November 2025. - East Gippsland Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomes new members to strengthen engagement with farming
East Gippsland's Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomed new members, enhancing council's connection with farming communities while tackling key priorities like renewable energy, drought resilience, mental health, and pest animal challenges. - Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to provide feedback on the new Alan Croxford Playground design by 20 March 2026
Baw Baw Shire Council invites community feedback on two new Alan Croxford Playground designs, aiming to create a safe, engaging, and family-friendly space in Rawson through the Playground Renewal Program. - Darren Chester joins East Gippsland community to honour fallen Victoria police officers on Remembrance Day
Darren Chester joined the East Gippsland community for National Police Remembrance Day in Bairnsdale, honouring Victoria Police officers who lost their lives and recognising those who continue to serve. - Kay Street Car Park construction progressing smoothly, delivering major new parking capacity for Traralgon CBD by 2026
Construction of Traralgon’s five-level Kay Street Car Park is progressing on schedule for mid-2026, delivering 430 new CBD spaces and supporting local businesses, accessibility, and future regional growth. - South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year and other council updates
South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, highlights skatepark opening, Australia Day awards, community programs, seasonal bin changes, and upcoming events. - Victorian Agency for Health Information data shows ambulance services declining due to Labor's under‑resourcing, mismanagement and denial
The latest data shows Victoria’s ambulance service declining, with fewer than 64% of Code 1 responses within 15 minutes, highlighting regional delays, under‑resourcing, and mismanagement under the Allan Labor government. - Tim Bull slammed labor for $13M machete amnesty waste, penalising Gippslanders while failing to target urban crime effectively
Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticized Labor's $13 million machete amnesty, calling it wasteful, ineffective, and unfairly punishing rural Victorians while targeting areas with no machete problem. - Mayor Rochelle Halstead honoured with MAV 10-year Service Award for her dedication to local government
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead has received the MAV 10-Year Service Award, recognising her decade of dedicated leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening local government and the Bass Coast community. - South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on two proposed accessible locations for new toilet facilities in Nyora's RSL Park
South Gippsland Shire Council invites feedback on two proposed Nyora RSL Park toilet locations, offering improved safety, accessibility, and amenities. Submissions close Sunday, 12 October 2025. - East Gippsland expands Whelans Group road maintenance contract, ensuring service continuity and local job retention across shire
East Gippsland Council has expanded Whelans Group’s road maintenance role, taking over areas previously managed by Cranes Asphalting, ensuring service continuity, high standards, and retention of local jobs across the shire. - Darren Chester praises volunteers powering Traralgon International’s global success, showcasing Gippsland worldwide tennis event
Federal MP Darren Chester has praised Latrobe Valley volunteers for driving the success of the Traralgon International, highlighting their dedication, community pride and vital role in showcasing Gippsland globally. - Danny O’Brien congratulates Gippsland Volunteer Emergency Services on VESEP funding support
Danny O’Brien praised Gippsland volunteer emergency services for VESEP funding, supporting vital equipment, facility upgrades, and ongoing advocacy for a new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel to ensure community safety. - East Gippsland Council launches pool and spa safety inspection service to ensure compliance and protect residents
East Gippsland Council reminds residents to ensure pools and spas meet safety regulations and offers a $385 Barrier Compliance Inspection Service, including inspection, report, follow-up, certification, and database lodgement. - Martin Cameron urges Energy Minister to lift outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon
Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development. - Martin Cameron condemns Labor for blocking Jack’s Law, pledges action to combat knife crime
Martin Cameron condemned the Allan Labor government for blocking Jack’s Law, pledging to introduce it if elected, giving police powers to combat knife crime, following its success in other Australian states. - Carbon Calculator Events for farm emissions, accounting, and carbon farming insights for farmers
Attend the free Carbon Calculator Events on 28 October and 11 November 2025 in Traralgon to learn carbon farming, accounting, and estimate your farm's emissions footprint. Registration required. - Bass Coast Shire Council pop-up sessions on four local playspace upgrades and proposed new designs on 13 Jan 2026
Bass Coast Council is upgrading four playspaces in Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, and Ventnor, inviting community feedback on two design options via Engage Bass Coast and January pop-up sessions. - Gippsland Water completes Baw Baw Leak Detection Program, repairing hidden leaks to improve service reliability and reduce water loss
Gippsland Water's Baw Baw leak detection program surveyed 425 km of mains, uncovering 128 leaks. Repairs improve service reliability, reduce water loss, and support proactive network maintenance across the region. - Allan Labor government backs First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with new sports grants
The Allan Labor government has announced over $67,000 in Aboriginal Sport Participation Grants, supporting First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with travel, uniforms, and equipment to compete locally and nationally. - Season’s greetings to East Gippsland residents with wishes for a joyful Christmas and prosperous New Year
Wishing East Gippsland residents a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, with gratitude to service workers, reminders for festive safety, and hopes for connection, kindness, and a prosperous 2026. - Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre partially closes for urgent roof, gym, and wet area upgrades over coming weeks
Parts of Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre will close temporarily for urgent roof, gym, and wet area upgrades. Alternative facilities and adjusted programs are available during Stage 1 works.
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